This is the first larger carving I have completed using my new gouges, they have essentially allowed me to abandon the set of craft knives I had been using and at the same time has also eliminated the fear I had of breaking the rather flimsy knives. The gouges have certainly made life a lot less difficult, making cutting and shaping far simpler and far less frustrating!
Dougie Fir had been living at the foot of our garden when I discovered him during some routine maintenance. Seemingly he’s been there for some time living amongst the rather awkward and jaggy Sitka family of wood sprites. To be honest I think he was grateful to be rescued from amongst their clutches.
Generally he seems like a bit of a sad fellow, his sad eyes show the lie of his forced grin. Personally I just think he needs some decent company and a good cuppa tea, but I think he’s disconcerted by his current view from where he can see his former captors. In this case I’m sure that a bit of distance will do more to heal his wounds than any encouragement I can offer.
I have also used paints on this carving to a far greater extent than I have on previous carvings where I have limited things to eyes and lips. On this occasion the entire carving has been painted, either with the application of various washes or with more detailed work. The over-all effect has come out better than I expected and I think it’s an aspect of the carving that I shall continue to develop.
This item is available for sale in the shop: http://madestuffshop.etsy.com
Tags: abstract, art, carved, carving, craft, gift, handmade, head, ornament, sculpture, sprite, whittle, whittling, wood, wooden
pretty cool I started carving doug fir 2X4 I like basswood much better. I know what fear is with a dull knife and a 2X4.
Great work – there is so much character in this carving, and well painted.